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The Smokies peaceful corner - Cosby
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View of a snow covered peak from the Cosby picnic area inside the Great Smoky Mountains NP
When it comes to visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you aren't alone. This park draws about 9 million or more people each year. However, there are plenty of places to escape the crowds. Nestled in the northeast corner of this more than 500,000 acre park sits the Cosby Recreation Area. It is only a few miles off I-40 via the Foothills Parkway or US 321 in Cocke County. The road into this portion of the park takes you through the small community of Cosby, a collection of craft shops, restaurants and homes. Once you turn off State Rt. 32 you'll start following Cosby Creek, a fast moving mountain stream with lots of cascades and big rocks. There are a couple of places to pull over and get closer to the water, so don't worry. You'll also see high peaks in the distance which get closer as you make your way to the end of this road which ends at the picnic area and campground (the latter is currently closed for renovations). You'll find restroom facilities and plenty of room to roam around here. There are several trailheads nearby including short walks into the woods and by the streams. This is also the spot where you can start some longer hikes including the hike to Mt. Cammerer where you'll find a fire tower (11 miles round trip). Hen Wallow Falls is also accessed from Cosby via the Gabes Mountain Trail. Although colder temperatures may have you thinking twice about coming to this part of the park, it's a wonder during any season. As the leaves change colors, this is a great place to sit and watch. You can also come here to see snow on the mountaintops when the valley is dry. Driving on the Foothills Parkway will allow you some more opportunities for viewing the mountains. You can also drive on out TN 32 to the North Carolina state line (the road turns to gravel for a short time before it connects with I-40). Cosby is a rare place considering the massive development on the edge of the park in places like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge or Cherokee. US 321 from Cosby takes you to Gatlinburg. It's about 20 miles. This is an excellent way to avoid much of the traffic you encounter going to the park from I-40 at exit 407.
Other Great Smoky Mountain Stories - Snow in the Smokies , Cades Cove , Newfound Gap , Clingman's Dome
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